01627730

Component

https://doi.org/10.3141/2617-09

Dynamic message sign (DMS) systems aim to provide realistic, reliable, and real-time traffic information to roadway users. This study investigated the performance of a DMS present at a work zone that warns drivers of any imminent congestion. A work zone in Davenport, Iowa, was used as the test site to evaluate the performance and the proposed algorithm improvements. A typical automated DMS uses a dedicated sensor measuring speed or occupancy and simple thresholds to post messages warning drivers of the congestion by using a set of predefined messages such as "Traffic Delays Possible," "Slow Traffic Ahead," and "Stopped Traffic Ahead." On the basis of field observation, it was found that these simplistic algorithms lead to a significant number of very short messages, erroneous messages during nighttime, and groups of messages that continuously alternate between different displays. This study first developed performance metrics to report the issues with the existing DMS automated programming logic and then proposed a machine learning–based real-time algorithm for improved operations.

01632438

17-04803

English

pp 71–77

2017

Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board

9780309441667

Digital/other

Figures (7) ; References (15)

Logic; Machine learning; Metrics (Quantitative assessment); Performance measurement; Variable message signs; Work zone traffic control

Data and Information Technology; Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Safety and Human Factors

PRP, TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Dec 8 2016 11:50AM

• Calibration of a Digital Camera for Rapid Auditing of In Situ Intersection Illumination
• Effect of Work Zone Lighting on Drivers’ Visual Performance and Perceptions of Glare
• Effects of Full Matrix Color Changeable Message Signs on Legibility and Roadway Hazard Visibility
• Field Evaluation of Pilot Vehicles and Portable Traffic Control Signals With and Without a Flagger
• Influence of Truck-Mounted Radar Speed Signs in Controlling Vehicle Speed for Mobile Maintenance Operations: Oregon Case Study
• Recommended Guidelines for Nighttime Overhead Sign Visibility
• Special-Color Pavement Marking for Highway Work Zones: Literature Review of International Practices
• Work Zone Coordination Software Tool
• Work Zone Impact Assessment Methods and Applications
• Work Zone Safety Performance: Comparison of Alternative Traffic Control Strategies